AIR POLLUTION EVENTS IN HISTORY
1990s

1990: Congress passes further revisions to Clean Air Act Amendments, this time providing more time to comply with standards but requiring that cities implement specific air pollution control measures.

1990: California Low Emissions Vehicle Program established with implementation in 2003 model year.

1992: The Energy Policy Act (Epact) was passed by Congress to reduce our nations dependence on imported petroleum. The law requires certain fleets (Federal, State, and Alternative Fuel Providers) to purchase a specified percent of their new vehicle purchases as Alternative Fuel Vehicles (AFV’s). Alternative Fuels covered by the act include:

Methanol and Ethanol in blends of 85% or more with gasoline<

Natural Gas, and liquefied fuels domestically produced from Natural Gas

Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG or Propane)

Coal-derived liquid fuels

Hydrogen and electricity

Biodiesel (B100)—added in 2001

1993: EPA reviews ozone standard, but chooses not to revise it.

1994: DOE establishes the Clean Cities Program. This program is a voluntary, public-private partnership designed to raise the awareness on improving air quality, strengthening the local economy, and enhancing appreciation for alternative fuels. Presently, there are about 80 Clean Cities coalitions in the US.

1994: Ford Motor Company, working in partnership with the State of California sells over 2000 Taurus Flexible Fuel Vehicles (FFV’s) that operate on M85 in the state, mostly to private individuals. The State supports the effort with the establishment of Methanol refueling stations.

1994: Federal Tier I emissions standards implemented.

1996: California clean burning reformulated gasoline implemented.

1997: EPA strengthens the National Ambient Air Quality standard for particulate matter and ozone air pollution.

1999: Clinton Administration announces federal plan that would for the first time require all private passenger vehicles – including sport-utility vehicles and diesel-powered vehicles – to meet the same tough clean air standards.

1999: Auto manufacturers, EPA, and some Northeast states enter into voluntary agreement to offer National Low Emission Vehicles.